Safety and quality on two wheels: brakes, torque, batteries and responsibility

Bicycle and motorcycle mechanics work has particular seriousness: the rider of a two-wheeled vehicle is unprotected in traffic. A bike with failing brakes or a motorcycle with a loose wheel can cost lives. Therefore care with safety-critical parts is not a good habit — it is the trade's most important duty.

§Safety critical parts

Some parts are safety-critical because they directly determine whether the driver can steer and stop: brakes, steering, wheels, tyres and drive-line connections. These parts must always be checked extra carefully, and you must never send out a vehicle where they are not in order. Doubt about a brake is enough to act.

§Correct tightening

Many parts on a two-wheeled vehicle must be tightened to a specific torque. Too loose can loosen during driving with dangerous consequences; too tight can stretch or break the bolt or damage the thread. Use a torque wrench on the parts where the manufacturer specifies a torque — it is especially important on safety-critical connections and on light materials such as aluminum and carbon fiber, which cannot withstand being over-tightened.

§Batteries and electricity

E-bikes and e-motorcycles have batteries that contain a lot of energy. A damaged or incorrectly handled battery can in the worst case overheat or catch fire. Handle batteries according to manufacturer's instructions, avoid damaging them, charge correctly and store safely. Also respect that higher voltages on electric vehicles can be dangerous.

• 01Always check brakes and steering an extra time
• 02Use torque wrench on safety-critical and light parts
• 03Handle batteries according to instructions — avoid damage and incorrect charging
• 04Test the vehicle before delivery

§Own work environment.

Although the vehicles are small there are also risks for the mechanic yourself: contact with oil and chemicals sharp parts and crushing injuries. Wear gloves and eye protection ensure good ventilation when working with fuel and cleaners and keep the workshop tidy so you do not trip or lose track. Used tyres oil and parts are disposed of properly.

§What is quality?

Quality is a vehicle that is safe, well-adjusted and reliable. It is gears that shift smoothly, brakes that grip precisely, wheels that run straight, and connections that are tightened correctly. Quality is also that you test your work and are honest with the customer about what has been done and what should be watched. On two wheels, quality and safety are the same thing.

“On two wheels, there is no bumper and no airbag — only the rider. Therefore, the mechanic's care with brakes and steering is ultimately a matter of safety.”